Yoga for Divers

Diving is one of the most fun and intimidating practices that are gaining more popularity these days. Whether you are a newbie in this field or an experienced diver, it is unavoidable and unquestionable that fear still exists. Knowing that our anatomical system isn’t designed to survive underwater, and the thought of all of the deathly creatures that might be wandering around the diving spot, you will surely be swallowed by fear and doubts. However, overcoming these negative thoughts will be rewarded by the underwater world’s magnificent beauty once you conquer them.

Dive into Strength and Consciousness!
Yoga is well-known for its enormous benefits to the body and mind. The physical practice, combined with breathing exercises and meditation, will definitely promote better focus and awareness, a strong physique and a calm mind. All these aspects are very beneficial to divers whose awareness must be heightened all the time to ensure safety.

Breathing exercises are very effective ways to help divers achieve their maximum breathing capacity. When practicing pranayama(s), the slow and controlled breathing does not only relax the mind but also improves the lungs’ oxygen absorption and consumption.

Conscious Breathing.

When diving deeper into the water, the pressure of the surroundings change. Air compression inside the body occurs and is decompressed as you approach back to the surface. This is where conscious breathing plays a vital role. If you hold breath as you reach the surface, air decompression inside the body can damage your sinuses, lungs and ears. Consciously breathing during dives means less air consumption, and less air consumption means deeper dives.

To practice breathing fully: Begin by sitting in a comfortable position while lengthening your spine. Close your eyes and inhale through the nose. Fill your lungs with air, then, your diaphragm. Exhale as you release the air in your lungs and notice how your chest deflates. Then, release the air in your diaphragm and notice how your belly sinks down. Keep a ratio of 3:3 for a full breath. This means taking 3 seconds to inhale and 3 seconds to release. Practice breathing fully as much as you desire.

Physical Practice/Asana(s)

Like other activities, diving is very physically demanding. This field requires that a person must be physically fit before getting into the waters. Yoga asana(s) or Yoga postures are very effective in increasing the body’s overall strength and well-being, making diving a lot less risky and creating a more fun experience without neglecting safety.

Heart Openers

Camel, Cobra and Sphinx Pose helps to stretch and counter the compression on your back due to the heavy 15-kilogram cylinder you carry around.

To do Sphinx Pose: Lie on your stomach and place your hands near your ribs. Slide back, allowing your forearms to rest on the ground. Remember to keep your spine long and keep your feet together.

Strong quads are a must. Whether it be walking to your boat in full gear or lifting yourself up back to the boat from a dive, strong quads and legs will help distribute the heavyweight throughout the lower extremities to avoid any back injury. Warrior I, Chair Pose and bridge variations will surely improve your quads’ overall strength.

To do Warrior I: Begin in a plank position. Inhale, then, bring your right foot between your hands and turn your left foot out on a 45-degree angle. Stabilize yourself by sending your hips forward, placing your weight on your right foot. Place your hands in prayer and inhale as you reach your arms up, palms pressing against each other. Stay in this pose for 3-5 breaths.

Being at the present moment is vital to both Yoga and scuba diving, to fully absorb the magnificent experience and be consciously elevated. The unification between you and the experience can be achieved through meditation. Heightened awareness, composure under pressure and appreciation of your existence and the wonders in front of you will surely elevate your soul’s emotions and perspectives. Disassociation to the world’s stress and chaos through yoga or diving is a very effective medium of self-realization.

Composure Under Pressure

When experiencing trouble while underwater, remaining calm will surely save you. Panicking will only cause more trouble, injuries, or worst, death. Being composed during these moments and knowing the procedure will keep you safe from any harm. Meditation cultivates calmness which will surely make your diving experience less scary and more fun!

Adding Yoga as a part of your routine is an effective way of boosting your overall health. Practicing Yoga also makes anything a lot less scary and more fun. If you feel any doubt or fear or want to increase your mind and body’s capabilities to improve your diving experience, hop onto the mat and let the transformation begin!